Artist description Michael's own music combines elements of blues, free jazz, ambient, bizarre country even hints of 20th century composers like Steve Reich. Michael performs with many different musicians as well as solo. He also runs a cool website(www.michaelkeith.com)

Music Style jazz,ambient & guitar weirdness

Musical Influences bill frisell, david torn, john zorn,

Similar Artists bill frisell, david torn, marc ribot, john zorn

Artist History Admired by music lovers nationwide and beyond, Michael Keith and his Complex make a formidable team. They are enjoyed as much for their style bending repertoire (comprised chiefly of Michael's own compositions) as the unique manner in which they, with care and humanity, bring these creations to joyous life. The music of the Michael Keith Complex has been described as 'blues for the 21st century.' And although their music swings and grooves like blues, r&b and jazz, they use both popular and experimental styles (in equal measure) to temper the mixture. The result is the 'Complex' sonic formula. The group is very pleased to include itself in a growing collective of modern musicians wishing to expand the art form of instrumental music making. This contemporary style is informed equally by the traditions of pop music as other high-brow styles such as jazz and classical music, whose list includes: Bill Frisell, Marc Ribot, Don Byron and Toronto's own, Kevin Breit to name a few. Michael Keith is a well known guitarist based in Toronto. His recording and touring stints with artists as diverse as Jaymz Bee, Martin Tielli, Mia Sheard, and Carlos DelJunco illustrate his flexibility as a musician and his capabilities as a professional. Michael has recorded three well received solo recordings: 'Spirit,' 'Emily 13' and 'with the complex.' Each has been a testament to his ever-growing skills as a performer and composer. Michael's awe-inspiring performances have been seen on CBC Television and Bravo and have been heard on radio stations internationally. The musicians that make up Michael's Complex bring to this project their experience and youthful exuberance. Toronto woodwinds favourite, Jim Bish, is a master of all contemporary styles and can, at will, breathe fire to heat things up or blow ice to cool things down. Steve Zsirai playing fretted and fretless electric basses, is the funk foundation on which the band so sturdily sits. And drummer, Joel Allen para-diddle-diddles in the most delightful (and peculiar!) way. With all the elements in place, this ensemble is equipped to go where most fear to tread.Experience the Michael Keith Complex!

Group Members michael keith-guitars,bass,looping electrical thingys joel allen-drums ish z-bass jim bish-sax,clarinet

Instruments guitars,bass,various looping devices,drums,muffins

Albums The michael keith complex,Emily 13,Spirit

Press Reviews “Michael Keith plays each note with an intense conviction, never showing any of the glib smugness of someone who has mastered his instrument. He wrestles the thing up to the edge of his ability and keeps pushing.This is a great musician of soul and passion." Martin Tielli the Rheostatics, Nick Buzz “Guitarist Michael Keith plays jazz blues and funk tastefully and in his own way. One of the best unheralded guitarists in Canada. If you like action on the axe, see him live!” Eddy B (CIUT Radio Host)

Location Toronto, Ontario - Canada

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